Outback Steakhouse Mac And Cheese: A Complete Guide To This Comfort Food Classic

Have you ever wondered why Outback Steakhouse's mac and cheese has become such a beloved menu item? This creamy, indulgent side dish has captured the hearts of diners across America, proving that even at a steakhouse, comfort food reigns supreme. Whether you're craving a classic mac and cheese or looking to try the innovative steakhouse mac & cheese bites, Outback offers something for every cheese lover.

Menu Options and Variations

Outback Steakhouse mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that has become a favorite side dish for many diners. Its creamy, cheesy pasta pairs perfectly with steaks, chicken, seafood, and even lighter dishes. The restaurant offers several variations to satisfy different cravings and appetites.

The regular mac & cheese is available for just $6.99 and provides a generous portion of the classic comfort dish. For those looking for something a bit more indulgent, the steakhouse mac & cheese bites are priced at $8.49 and pack 770 calories per serving. These crispy, breaded mac and cheese bites offer a fun twist on the traditional dish.

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For those who want the ultimate mac and cheese experience, Outback offers a steakhouse mac & cheese platter featuring creamy mac & cheese with a steakhouse twist. This shareable side dish is perfect for groups or those with a hearty appetite. The platter typically serves 2-3 people and comes with additional toppings or mix-ins that elevate it beyond standard mac and cheese.

What Makes Outback Mac and Cheese Special?

Outback's mac and cheese is made with penne pasta tossed in a creamy cheese sauce that includes Velveeta, cheddar, and cream. This combination creates a rich, velvety texture that coats each pasta piece perfectly. The use of penne rather than traditional elbow macaroni provides a different mouthfeel and allows the cheese sauce to cling better to the pasta.

The secret to Outback's signature taste lies in the balance of cheeses. Velveeta provides that smooth, melty consistency that's essential for good mac and cheese, while sharp cheddar adds depth and tanginess. The addition of cream creates an ultra-rich sauce that makes this dish truly indulgent.

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For those curious about the nutritional content, the steakhouse mac & cheese contains approximately 720 calories per serving. This makes it a substantial side dish that should be considered when planning your overall meal, especially if you're ordering a steak or other protein as your main course.

Making Outback Mac and Cheese at Home

Many fans of Outback's mac and cheese wonder if they can recreate this comfort food classic at home. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, you can create a similar dish with some key techniques and ingredients.

The foundation of any great mac and cheese is the cheese sauce. Start with a roux (equal parts butter and flour) to create a base that will help your sauce achieve the right consistency. From there, incorporate your cheeses gradually, allowing each to melt completely before adding more. The key is patience and low heat to prevent the cheese from breaking or becoming grainy.

For the closest approximation to Outback's version, use a combination of Velveeta-style processed cheese for smoothness, sharp cheddar for flavor, and heavy cream for richness. Penne pasta works best, but you can substitute other shapes if needed. Some home cooks add a touch of mustard powder or hot sauce to enhance the cheese flavor without making the dish spicy.

Customer Favorites and Reviews

Reviews and photos of Outback's mac and cheese offerings show that customers particularly enjoy the steakhouse mac & cheese shareable side. This dish has become a popular choice for groups and families dining at Outback, with many patrons noting its creamy texture and rich flavor.

The Alice Springs Chicken, another Outback favorite, pairs exceptionally well with the mac and cheese as a side. This combination of grilled chicken topped with mushrooms, bacon, and cheese alongside the pasta creates a truly indulgent meal that satisfies multiple comfort food cravings at once.

Customers have also expressed enthusiasm for the blooming onion, another signature Outback item that, when combined with mac and cheese, creates a feast of classic American comfort foods. The contrast between the crispy, savory onion and the creamy pasta provides a satisfying variety of textures and flavors.

Nutritional Information and Considerations

For those watching their calorie intake, it's important to note that Outback's mac and cheese dishes are quite calorie-dense. The regular mac & cheese contains fewer calories than the steakhouse version, but both are substantial sides that should be factored into your meal planning.

The steakhouse mac & cheese bites, while delicious, pack 770 calories into a relatively small serving. These are best enjoyed as a shared appetizer rather than a personal side dish, especially if you're planning to order a steak or other entrée.

Outback does offer some lighter options and modifications for those with dietary restrictions. While traditional mac and cheese isn't typically considered a health food, you can request modifications or choose smaller portions when available. Some locations may be able to provide nutritional information upon request, allowing you to make informed choices based on your dietary needs.

Popular Menu Pairings

According to the company's Facebook page, "every steak needs a mate," and many diners find that Outback's mac and cheese makes the perfect companion to their favorite cuts of meat. The rich, creamy pasta provides a nice contrast to the savory, charred flavors of a well-prepared steak.

The menu also features savory combos that pair well with mac and cheese as a side. For instance, the steak and seafood combinations benefit from the addition of this comforting pasta dish, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies multiple cravings.

For those who prefer chicken, the Alice Springs Chicken mentioned earlier creates a harmonious combination when served alongside mac and cheese. The mushrooms, bacon, and honey mustard sauce complement the creamy pasta perfectly.

Dining Experience and Atmosphere

Outback Steakhouse is known for its casual dining experience with ample parking and warm, welcoming staff ensuring every meal is satisfying. The restaurant's Australian-themed decor creates a relaxed atmosphere that's perfect for families, groups of friends, or casual business dinners.

Many locations offer outdoor seating for those who prefer to dine al fresco, and reservations are available to help manage wait times during busy periods. The casual atmosphere makes Outback a great choice for everything from quick lunches to celebratory dinners.

The restaurant also accommodates various dietary needs, with vegetarian options available and staff trained to assist with special requests. While mac and cheese is naturally vegetarian, those with other dietary restrictions should feel comfortable asking about ingredient lists or preparation methods.

Customer Favorites Beyond Mac and Cheese

While mac and cheese is certainly a highlight, Outback Steakhouse offers many other popular dishes that keep customers coming back. The lobster, despite "steakhouse" being in the name, has gained significant popularity among diners. Customers are loving this fresh and buttery dish at the casual steakhouse, proving that Outback excels beyond just beef offerings.

The steakhouse also offers round-out meal deals that include two freshly made sides, such as a loaded baked potato, Aussie fries, or steakhouse mac & cheese. These combinations provide great value and allow diners to sample multiple menu items in one sitting.

For those looking to explore beyond the classic offerings, Outback regularly introduces new menu items and seasonal specials. The creamy stuffed mushrooms, for instance, have become a new favorite for many, offering delicious creaminess that pairs well with both the mac and cheese and heartier entrées.

Conclusion

Outback Steakhouse's mac and cheese has earned its place as a beloved menu item through its perfect combination of creamy texture, rich flavor, and comforting appeal. Whether you're enjoying the classic version alongside a perfectly grilled steak, sharing the steakhouse mac & cheese bites as an appetizer, or indulging in the shareable platter, this dish delivers satisfaction with every bite.

The versatility of Outback's mac and cheese makes it suitable for various dining occasions, from casual lunches to celebratory dinners. Its popularity has even inspired many home cooks to attempt recreating the dish, though the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret.

Next time you visit Outback Steakhouse, consider making their mac and cheese part of your dining experience. Whether as a side to your favorite steak, a shared appetizer, or even a main dish for the truly devoted mac and cheese enthusiast, this comfort food classic continues to delight diners and cement its status as one of Outback's most popular offerings.